US Flag Raising in Iraq

[96B]

US Marines raised the US flag in Iraq but were told to take it down because we are a liberating force, not an occupying force. Someone told me that the Marines were told not to raise any flags and do any such actions but apparently they did so anyways. Does anybody know if this is true or not?

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http://wwwi.*******.com/images/mdf237701.jpg

From *******:

A U.S. Marine raises the American and Marine flag at the entrance to Iraq's main port of Umm Qasr March 21, 2003. Marines briefly raised the Stars and Stripes after facing tougher than expected resistance in and around the southern Iraq port. Some time later, the flag was removed. No reason was given for the decision, but Washington has consistently stressed that invading U.S. forces want to liberate Iraq, not occupy it Photo by Desmond Boylan/*******

cheers

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[Ratamacue]

I would say that putting up the Stars and Stripes and Marine Corps flag is a perfectly legitimate action, especially after the combat experienced in Umm Qasr. Typical government exaggeration.

[papabear]

Taking down the flag in order to avoid signs of occupation is a good policy to take viz. the other countries in the region. Even though this small gesture will probably not change the minds of those in Syria, etc. protesting the war, still it's better to avoid adding fuel to the fire when possible.